The Manitoba government is partnering with Brandon University to replace the Gulliver Astronomical Observatory’s telescope dome to ensure future generations can use Manitoba’s largest public telescope.
The province will put $100,000 in funding toward the dome replacement, which supplements a $50,000 donation from Brandon University astronomy professor Dr. Austin Gulliver’s family.
Advanced Education and Training Minister Renée Cable said today, “For over half a century, the telescope at the Gulliver Astronomical Observatory opened a window to the galaxy for Westman’s scientific community. It has invited students, researchers and community members to witness countless astronomical events first-hand. This investment will protect valuable equipment while improving safety for staff and visitors, allowing Manitobans to see the stars for years to come.”
Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard said, “By investing in the replacement of the observatory dome, our government is helping ensure this unique educational and community resource continues to inspire curiosity, discovery and wonder.”
The university installed its original rooftop telescope and dome in 1971. The university replaced the telescope in 2009 with a computerized Ritchey-Chrétien model, which is 16 inches in diameter and provides observers the ability to image other planets and galaxies.
The dome, which has not been replaced since 1971, is no longer weatherproof. It must also be manually opened and monitored from the roof, the ministers noted, which creates risks for staff and equipment.
“Brandon University researchers tackle questions spanning from the soils of Manitoba to the stars in the furthest galaxies. This welcome investment from our partners at the Manitoba government, combined with the generosity of the Gulliver family and our other donors, will help open up a universe of new opportunities for our students and our community,” said Dr. Christine Bovis-Cnossen, president and vice-chancellor, Brandon University.
The modern new dome will be weather-sealed, automated and connected to the internet so it can be operated remotely and protected from environmental damage, while allowing students, researchers and the public to watch the telescope’s live view online.
